Make Music Day Rochester is happening in more than 2,000 cities worldwide on the Summer Solstice. This year serves as Rochester’s official re-introduction to Make Music Day pilot! Together we are focused on creating visibility, partnerships, and community ownership that can expand in the years ahead –that includes you.

Make Music Day Rochester exists to unite artists, amplify local creativity, and build accessible musical experiences throughout the city. Rooted in participation and collaboration, the celebration invites the entire community to help shape a growing annual tradition that reflects Rochester’s diverse cultural energy. 

The Avenue Blackbox Theatre will serve as Rochester’s official headquarters for Make Music Day 2026 but it doesn’t stop there. We are encouraging music making in every quadrant of the city!

Avenue Blackbox Theatre | 780 Joseph Ave. 11am – 8pm
Make Music Day Headquarters: Primary hub for coordination, featured performances, and community-facing activation. Including a “Conduct Us” community orchestra, drum circle, open mic, lyric writing workshops, and much more.

Local Sound Collab | 343 East Ave.
A creative sound space encouraging collaborative jam sessions, live instrumentation, and open musical exploration.

La Marketa at the International Plaza | 828 N. Clinton Ave.
A cultural gathering space centered on community engagement, interactive sound, and public celebration.

Just Juice 4 Life / Amore Saunas | 712 University Ave.
A wellness-meets-culture activation site blending music, movement, and community energy.

Make Music Day belongs to the community — and everyone has a role to play!

Anyone can participate in Make Music Day Rochester. Whether you’re a professional looking to have some fun and spread some joy, or someone picking up an instrument for the very first time, there’s a place for you in the celebration.

All types of music makers and collaborators wanted! Musicians, DJs, producers, rappers, venue owners, youth groups, church choirs, businesses, home-owners or someone simply excited to help, you’re invited to join the movement. You can host a performance, organize a pop-up activation, donate instruments, volunteer your time, or step outside and make music with your neighbors.

Sign up here to perform, host an event, collaborate with local artists, or help bring music into public spaces across the city.

Or just show up and show out! See you outside.

Support

Make Music Day thrives through community collaboration. We welcome sponsors, local businesses, organizations, and creative partners who believe in the power of music to connect neighborhoods, support artists, and energize public spaces across Rochester.

Let’s use this day to create free, accessible music experiences across the city while supporting local artists, neighborhood activations, and future growth. Together, we’re building an annual tradition that celebrates Rochester’s creativity, culture, and collective spirit.

Help us grow a citywide celebration!

Get in touch with us at rochester@makemusicday.org.